The Importance of a Fire Escape Plan | CheckFire Ltd
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The importance of a fire escape plan

Are you on top of all your fire escape plan requirements? Whatever the environment and wherever the premises, the importance of fire safety in buildings should never be minimized. As part of a building’s overarching fire prevention and safety measures, an evacuation plan must be prioritised and all users of the building should be aware of its contents.

Here, we explain the importance of maintaining clear evacuation routes at all times, look at the key considerations of a fire escape plan and discuss how to communicate it to anyone in the building so they’re aware of what to do in the event of a fire.

Fire safety plans and equipment working together

For your fire risk assessment, you’ll need to consider and have in place fire detection and warning systems, fire-fighting equipment and emergency routes and exits. Each of these protective measures will work alongside each other to save lives – but they need to be well-communicated to be successful. A building may be fully kitted out with the right equipment and routes to safety, but if people don’t understand where they’re located or how to use them, they’re rendered useless.

How often should you check a fire escape route?

Evacuation plans must include clear passageways to all escape routes, emergency doors that open easily and emergency lighting that operates when needed. But how often should fire escape routes be checked? Ensuring they’re clear and free of combustible materials must be an internal daily task, as an emergency escape route could become blocked on any given day, whether by a delivery of sorts, misplaced furniture or other circumstances.

Escaping fire: The finer details

Every escape plan should include multiple escape routes so there are several options if flames block the desired exit. Clearly mark the building’s escape routes with all-important signage that provides guidance and reassurance as people make their way to the exits. Fire exit signs and fire action notices quickly and clearly alert people to the route that should be taken to safety and instruct any required actions. Fire safety signage is vital not only for people unfamiliar with the building but also those who use it regularly, as they may become disoriented or confused in the moment. Signage can also assist people with the location of various fire safety equipment, including fire extinguishers, and advise as to how it should be used.

In the event of a fire, a pre-determined assembly point, clearly marked by a fire assembly point sign, will be the safe place of meeting for everyone in the building.

Communicating the plan

Ensuring everyone is aware of the escape plan is hugely important. People should not only be fully up to date on when and how they can raise the alarm but also confident of where life-saving fire safety equipment can be found. The best way to ascertain whether people understand the procedure is to provide frequent training and hold regular evacuation drills. A fire warden (or marshal) can be appointed to maintain a high standard of fire precautions and oversee aspects including evacuation drill procedure.

Still unsure which fire safety signs are required for your fire escape plan? Get in touch for expert advice or download our fire safety signs flyer.

The content of the CheckFire blog is for general information purposes only. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, under no circumstances should it be considered professional advice. Any reliance you place on the information is at your own risk. Always seek the advice of a fire professional for your particular circumstances and requirements.

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